Founded in 1814, Spalding University is one of the most historic institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and combines a dedication to comprehensive, modern education with a genuine respect for its rich academic heritage. Evolving from the Nazareth Academy, founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth near Bardstown, Kentucky, Spalding University is the oldest University west of the Alleghenies to be steeped in the Catholic tradition. Today Spalding is an urban, co-educational institution offering twenty-five degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels to over 2000 students.

At the end of its last major capital campaign, Spalding faced a Presidential transition and turned to the team of Ashley|Rountree for guidance on its major gifts and planned giving programs. As the University's former Vice President for Advancement, Jeff Ashley was uniquely positioned to provide expert insight regarding donor relationships and additional giving opportunities during the final phase of Spalding's capital campaign and moving into post-campaign initiatives. Ashley worked closely with the University's staff leadership team and board to also identify new donors who could be approached for major gifts, as well as recommending initiatives to return to prior donors and asked for renewed support. Spalding was successful in raising over $15 million on a $10 million goal.